Business or Pleasure? At Hotel Renegade Boise, You Don't Have to Choose

Some business trips feel like a chore—you fly in, take meetings, and count the hours until you can leave. But sometimes, you check into a hotel that makes you want to extend your stay and turn that business trip into something more. Hotel Renegade in downtown Boise is exactly that kind of place—a hotel that straddles the line between productive workspace and vacation launchpad with remarkable ease.

Work Mode: A Digital Nomad's Dream

As someone who's worked from countless hotel rooms, I can spot the difference between places that claim to accommodate remote workers and those that actually understand our needs. Hotel Renegade falls firmly in the latter category.

My “classic” king room offered a proper workspace with an ergonomic chair, ample desk space, and lighting that didn't strain my eyes during video calls. The hotel-wide Wi-Fi maintained rock-solid speeds even during peak hours.

What impressed me most were the thoughtful touches: plentiful outlets and USB ports positioned exactly where you need them, blackout curtains for those midday naps between deadlines, and noise insulation that kept the outside world at bay when focus was essential.

The lobby features several distinct work zones—from semi-private booths with power outlets to a communal table where I struck up conversations with fellow travelers.

The Rooms: Basic in Name Only

Walking into my "classic" king room at Hotel Renegade, I had to double-check that I hadn't accidentally been upgraded. What they market as their entry-level offering would be labeled a premium room at most hotels.

Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, highlighting thoughtful design choices that blend modern comfort with nods to Boise's outdoor culture. The bed—often an afterthought even in upscale hotels—was genuinely excellent, with linens that made me check the tags for future reference.

Every corner showed remarkable attention to detail: a rainfall shower with perfect pressure, a mini-fridge that's actually stocked and ready for your own items, and climate control that maintains your preferred temperature without the typical hotel HVAC noise.

What truly sets Hotel Renegade's rooms apart is how they manage to feel both stylish and lived-in. Nothing feels precious or untouchable. The space invites you to kick off your hiking boots, open your laptop, or stretch out with a book in the reading nook.

Play Mode: When the Laptop Closes

After finishing my work for the day, Hotel Renegade offered plenty of reasons to stay put rather than retreating to my room. The lobby bar created a perfect transition space between work and leisure, with a happy hour that attracted a mix of locals and guests.

The hotel's prime location puts you within walking distance of Boise's best offerings. I started my mornings with coffee from a local shop just two blocks away, spent afternoon breaks exploring the Boise River Greenbelt, and discovered that the city's vibrant downtown scene was just steps from the hotel entrance.

When I needed recommendations, the staff provided options that felt personally curated rather than standard tourist suggestions. Their local knowledge helped me discover spots I'd have missed otherwise—from a hidden trail with spectacular valley views to a speakeasy-style bar tucked behind an unassuming storefront.

Hotel Renegade's staff seems genuinely invested in helping guests experience the best of Boise, whether you're extending a business trip or basing yourself there for remote work. Their local ties run deep, and it shows in the quality of their recommendations.

Dining: A Restaurant Worth Staying In For

Hotel Renegade's proximity to local dining gems adds another layer of appeal, with Baraboo Supper Club standing out as a must-visit just steps away. This modern take on the classic Midwest supper club brings nostalgic charm to downtown Boise with warm wood tones, red leather booths, and mood lighting that sets the perfect scene for unwinding after a day of meetings. Their menu pays homage to supper club traditions with prime steaks and classic cocktails while incorporating contemporary touches that satisfy today's palates. I settled into a booth my second night in town and watched as the skilled bartenders crafted perfect Old Fashioneds and ice-cold martinis. The Relish Tray—a supper club staple—arrived brimming with house-pickled vegetables and spreads that set the tone for what followed: a perfectly cooked filet with all the classic sides (get the whipped potatoes!) and attentive service that made me feel like a regular. Even if you're dining solo, the staff creates an atmosphere of belonging that embodies the true supper club spirit—where everyone is welcome and no one stays a stranger for long.

Brooke, our server, embodied the hotel's approach to hospitality. She suggested delicious sides and every recommendation was spot-on. When it came time for dessert, she shared that we must try the creme brulee. We were open to it but pretty full from dinner - she made it possible for us to take it back to our room and enjoy it later that evening. 

Pet-Friendly Bonus

Worth mentioning for those traveling with four-legged companions: Hotel Renegade is genuinely dog-friendly, not just dog-tolerant. My boy, Brody, was greeted at check-in and presented with his own welcome kit in the room (thank you Epic!), including treats and a bed that he enjoyed throughout the stay. The thoughtful pet amenities were just another example of how Hotel Renegade pays attention to the details that matter.

Remote Work & Extended Stay Tips:

1. Morning Productivity - Grab coffee from Blue Collar Coffee located just off the lobby of Hotel Renegade and claim one of the window seats for a productive morning session with great people-watching.

2. Midday Break - The Boise River Greenbelt is perfect for a 30-minute mental reset between meetings or work sessions.

3. After-Work Ritual - The lobby bar's happy hour (4-6pm) offers excellent craft cocktails and a chance to meet locals with insider knowledge of the city.

4. Weekend Extension - If your schedule allows, book through the weekend. The transition from work to leisure feels seamless when you don't have to change hotels.

The Renegade has mastered what many hotels attempt but few achieve: creating a space that works equally well for focused productivity and genuine relaxation. It's that rare hotel that makes you want to extend your business trip into a bleisure stay—and maybe even open your laptop reservation system to book your return before you've even checked out.